When it comes to holiday side dishes that feel like dessert, few can compete with the decadence and nostalgia of Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows and Streusel. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between creamy, lightly spiced mashed sweet potatoes and a gloriously golden topping of gooey marshmallows and crunchy pecan streusel. It’s a sweet-savory showstopper that belongs on every Thanksgiving or Christmas table—but it’s simple enough to enjoy year-round.

Whether you’re planning a holiday feast or just looking to elevate your dinner table with a dish that brings warmth and comfort, this recipe is made for you. With easy-to-follow steps, readily available ingredients, and options for variations, this casserole delivers crowd-pleasing flavor with minimal fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Potato Casserole

Sweet and Savory Perfection: The warm spices and brown sugar in the mashed sweet potatoes pair beautifully with the nutty streusel and melty marshmallows.
Texture Heaven: Creamy base, crispy streusel, and gooey toasted marshmallows—it’s everything in one bite.
Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare it in advance and bake it fresh before serving.
Versatile for Any Occasion: It’s right at home on a holiday spread, but equally suitable as a cozy weeknight side.

Ingredients Overview

For the Mashed Sweet Potatoes:

3 to 3¼ pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
¼ cup milk or half and half
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice
2 tablespoons brown sugar
Salt to taste

For the Topping:

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
¼ cup brown sugar
¼ cup all-purpose flour (add 1 more tablespoon for a firmer streusel)
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
⅛ teaspoon salt
½ cup chopped pecans
3 cups mini marshmallows (or more if you want a thicker layer)

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

Large pot
Potato masher or hand mixer
2 to 2½ quart casserole dish (8×11 recommended)
Medium mixing bowl
Fork or rubber spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Oven

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease your casserole dish. In a large pot, cover your chopped sweet potatoes with water and bring to a boil. Cook until fork-tender (about 7 minutes), then drain thoroughly.

Return the sweet potatoes to the pot and add butter, milk, cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice, brown sugar, and salt. Mash everything until smooth. For an extra creamy texture, use a hand mixer.

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Transfer the mash into your casserole dish and spread evenly. Place in the oven just to heat through while you prepare the topping.

2. Make the Streusel Topping

In a bowl, mix softened butter, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and salt. Use a fork or spatula to create a crumbly texture. Stir in the chopped pecans.

3. Assemble the Casserole

Remove the warm sweet potatoes from the oven. Scatter half the mini marshmallows over the top, then sprinkle half the streusel mixture on top, pinching it into small clumps. Repeat with the remaining marshmallows and streusel.

Return the dish to the oven and bake for 8–15 minutes, until the topping is golden and the marshmallows are bubbly. Keep a close eye near the end to prevent burning. For extra color, broil briefly—just 30–60 seconds.

Let the casserole sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.

Tips & Tricks for the Best Sweet Potato Casserole

Drain Well: Waterlogged sweet potatoes can lead to a runny base. Let them steam dry in the pot for a minute before mashing.
Use Real Butter: For both flavor and consistency, skip margarine.
Customize the Spice: Use nutmeg, ginger, or even a splash of bourbon for a twist.
Nut-Free Option: Omit pecans and double the streusel if you need an allergy-friendly version.
Add a Crunchy Bottom Layer: Toast extra pecans with a bit of butter and sprinkle under the sweet potatoes before baking.

Recipe Swaps and Variations

Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter and a dairy-free milk alternative like oat or almond milk. Swap marshmallows for a vegan brand.
Healthier Alternative: Reduce the marshmallows and sugar slightly, or add mashed banana or applesauce to sweeten naturally.
Coconut Topping: Replace marshmallows with toasted coconut for a tropical twist.
Mini Casseroles: Divide into ramekins for individual servings—great for entertaining!

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Casserole can be frozen before adding the marshmallow topping. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking and topping.
Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven until heated through. If reheating single portions, microwave in 30-second intervals.

Perfect Pairings

Pair this sweet potato casserole with:

Main Courses: Roasted turkey, honey-glazed ham, or garlic herb chicken.
Sides: Cranberry sauce, green bean casserole, and stuffing complement it beautifully.
Beverages: A crisp Riesling, sparkling apple cider, or chai-spiced tea all enhance the warm spices in the dish.

FAQ: Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows and Streusel

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the mashed sweet potatoes and the streusel up to two days in advance. Assemble and bake the day of serving.

Q: Can I use canned sweet potatoes?

You can, but make sure they’re packed in water (not syrup) and drain them very well. The flavor and texture may be slightly different.

Q: Do I have to use marshmallows?

Not at all! Try a pecan crumble or even a whipped cream cheese swirl for a unique twist.

Q: How do I keep marshmallows from melting too much?

Keep an eye on the casserole during baking and avoid placing it too close to the broiler unless you’re looking for a toasted effect. Use chilled marshmallows for a firmer hold.

Final Thoughts

This Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows and Streusel is everything you want in a holiday side dish: comfort, sweetness, texture, and nostalgic flavor. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this dish delivers every time. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that turns simple ingredients into a celebration-worthy classic.

If you make this recipe, be sure to share it with your friends and family—and don’t forget to subscribe to the blog for more unforgettable recipes like this one!

Let’s keep spreading the warmth, one casserole at a time.

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